System and method for protecting data stored on a removable data storage device

ABSTRACT

A system for protecting data stored in a memory of a removable data storage device is provided. The system includes a personal electronic device, a removable solid state data storage device operatively coupled to the personal electronic device, and a circuit configured to protect data stored in a memory of the data storage device in response to detecting impending removal of the data storage device from the personal electronic device.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to the field of removable datastorage devices. More specifically, the present application relates tothe field of systems and methods for protecting data on a removable datastorage device.

People store personal information, photographs, and other sensitive dataon personal electronic devices, e.g., mobile phones, smart phones,tablet computers, etc. If the personal electronic device is lost orstolen, the information and data may be revealed, which could have adevastating effect on the device owner and others. Accordingly, severalsystems and methods enable a user to remotely wipe the memory of a smartphone. However, if the sensitive data is stored on a removable datastorage device, e.g., SIM card, flash memory card, etc., wiping thememory of the smart phone may be ineffective in protecting the storeddata. Thus, there is a need to protect data stored on a removable datastorage device.

SUMMARY

One embodiment relates to a system for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device. The system includes apersonal electronic device, a removable solid state data storage deviceoperatively coupled to the personal electronic device, and a circuitconfigured to protect data stored in a memory of the data storage devicein response to detecting impending removal of the data storage devicefrom the personal electronic device.

Another embodiment relates to a removable data storage device includinga circuit configured to respond to detecting impending removal of theremovable data storage device from a personal electronic device byprotecting data stored in a memory of the removable data storage device.

Another embodiment relates to a method for protecting data stored in amemory of the removable data storage device. The method includesdetecting impending removal of the data storage device from a personalelectronic device and causing at least some of the data stored in amemory of the removable data storage device to be protected in responseto detecting impending removal of the data storage device.

Another embodiment relates to a method for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device. The method includes detectingremoval of the data storage device from a personal electronic device,causing at least some of the data stored in a memory of the removabledata storage device to be protected in response to detecting removal,and outputting a removal signal.

Another embodiment relates to a method for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device. The method includes detectingremoval of a data storage device from a personal electronic device,determining whether a data protection system is in a preauthorizedstate, and causing at least some of the data stored in a memory of theremovable data storage device to be protected based on detecting removaland on whether a data protection system is in a preauthorized state.

The foregoing is a summary and thus by necessity containssimplifications, generalizations and omissions of detail. Consequently,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary isillustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Otheraspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices and/orprocesses described herein, as defined solely by the claims, will becomeapparent in the detailed description set forth herein and taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a personal electronic device anda removable data storage device, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 2 is a detailed block diagram of the removable data storage deviceand personal electronic device of FIG. 1, shown according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 3A-3C are schematic block diagrams of a system for protecting datastored on a removable data storage device, shown according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 4A-4D are detailed schematic block diagrams of the removable datastorage device and personal electronic device of FIG. 1, shown accordingto other embodiments.

FIGS. 5A-5D are detailed schematic block diagrams of a cross-sectionalside-elevation view of the removable data storage device and personalelectronic device of FIG. 1, shown according to other embodiments.

FIGS. 6A-6B are detailed schematic block diagrams of the removable datastorage device and personal electronic device of FIG. 1, shown accordingto other embodiments.

FIGS. 7A-7B are detailed schematic block diagrams of the removable datastorage device and personal electronic device of FIG. 1, shown accordingto other embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a detailed block diagram of a removable data storage device,shown according to another embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a process for protecting data stored in amemory of a removable data storage device, shown according to anotherembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the figures, a system and method for protectingdata on a removable data storage device, and components thereof, areshown according to various exemplary embodiments. The removable datastorage device includes a memory configured to store data. The removabledata storage device may further include a power source and may beoperatively coupled to a personal electronic device. The system includesa circuit configured to respond to the removal of the removable datastorage device from the personal electronic device by protecting atleast some of the data stored in the memory of the removable datastorage device. The data may be protected in a variety of ways describedmore fully below, including deletion, encryption, alteration,corruption, etc. The circuit may be located on the removable datastorage device, the personal electronic device, or some combinationthereof. The systems and methods described more fully below may causethe data to be protected after the removable data storage device hasbeen removed from the personal electronic device, as the data storagedevice is being removed, or before the data storage device is removed.For example, the circuit may be configured to detect impending removalof the data storage device from the personal electronic device.According to one embodiment, the system may allow for preauthorizationof removal of the data storage device. In such an embodiment, the systemmay not protect the data or provide a lower level of protection of thedata if the removal has been preauthorized. It should be noted that thearrows in the figures generally indicate the direction of motion for theremovable data storage device to be removed from the personal electronicdevice.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining oftwo members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may bestationary in nature or moveable in nature and such joining may allowfor the flow of fluids, electricity, electrical signals, or other typesof signals or communication between the two members. Such joining may beachieved with the two members or the two members and any additionalintermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary bodywith one another or with the two members or the two members and anyadditional intermediate members being attached to one another. Suchjoining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable orreleasable in nature.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a system for protectingdata stored on a removable data storage device is shown according to anexemplary embodiment. A removable data storage device 10 (e.g., aSubscriber Identity Module (SIM), a Secure Digital (SD) memory card, anintegrated circuit (IC) memory, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) drive, aUniversal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC), a Removable User IdentityModule (R-UIM), a thumb drive, a flash drive, solid state storagedevice, etc.) may be operatively coupled to a personal electronic device100 (e.g., a mobile phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant,a pager, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, ahandheld computer, a camera, an audio recording device, etc.) Thepersonal electronic device 100 is shown to include a display 102, aprocessor 104, a memory 106 located on-board the personal electronicdevice 100, an antenna 108, and a user input device 110. According tovarious embodiments, the user input device 110 may include a keypad, akeyboard, a touch sensitive screen, a toggle switch, a rotary selector,a trackball, a camera, a fingerprint scanner, etc. Processor 104 may beor include one or more microprocessors, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a circuit containing one or more processingcomponents, a group of distributed processing components, circuitry forsupporting a microprocessor, or other hardware configured forprocessing. According to an exemplary embodiment, processor 104 may beconfigured to execute computer code stored in memory 106 to complete andfacilitate the activities described herein. Memory 106 can be anyvolatile or non-volatile memory device capable of storing data orcomputer code relating to the activities described herein. The personalelectronic device 100 is further shown to include a power supply 112configured to supply power to the personal electronic device 100 andcomponents thereof. According to an exemplary embodiment, the powersupply 112 is a battery. According to other embodiments, the powersupply 112 may be a transformer or a distributor of external power, forexample, if the personal electronic device 100 is plugged into a poweroutlet (e.g., wall socket, solar pad, etc.). The personal electronicdevice 100 may further include a cover 114, which may be removablycoupled to the personal electronic device 100 and configured to protectone or more components of the personal electronic device 100 fromenvironmental hazards (e.g., liquid, impact, debris, electrical shock,etc.). Depending on the configuration and purpose of the personalelectronic device 100, the personal electronic device 100 may or may notinclude all of the components described above.

Referring to FIG. 2, a detailed block diagram of a removable datastorage device 10 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Theremovable data storage device 10 is shown to include a memory 12, acircuit 14, and one or more data contacts 16. When the removable datastorage device is in an installed position, the data contacts 16 coupleto corresponding data contacts 116 on the personal electronic device 100and provide an electrical pathway from the personal electronic device100 to the components of the removable data storage device 10. Aninput/output (I/O) controller 18 may be operatively located between thedata contacts 16 and the memory 12 or the circuit 14. The I/O controller18 may be configured to control the distribution of data and signalsinto and out of the removable data storage device 10.

The memory 12 may include memory pointers 20 which may be used to locateinformation stored in the memory 12. For example, the I/O controller 18or the processor 104 of the personal electronic device 100 may accessthe memory pointers 20 in order to locate data stored in the memory 12.The memory 12 may further include one or more designated memorylocations 22. The designated memory location 22 may include a certainset or subset of bits or registers of memory 12. The designated memorylocations 22 may or may not be contiguous registers.

The circuit 14 may be configured to respond to the removal of theremovable data storage device 10 from the personal electronic device 100by protecting data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storagedevice 10. The circuit 14 includes one or more electrical pathways andmay include one or more microprocessors, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a circuit containing one or more processingcomponents, a group of distributed processing components, circuitry forsupporting a microprocessor, or other hardware configured forprocessing. According to various embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C,the circuit 14 may be disposed fully or partially on one or both of theremovable data storage device 10 and the personal electronic device 100.According to one embodiment, the removable data storage device 10 mayinclude a circuit 14 configured to respond to the removal of theremovable data storage device 10 from a personal electronic device 100by protecting data stored in a memory 12 of the removable data storagedevice 10. According to one embodiment, the circuit 14 includes anantenna 80, which may be configured for communication with the personalelectronic device 100 (e.g., after the removable data storage device 10has been removed from the personal electronic device 100) or withanother electronic device.

Further referring to the block diagrams of exemplary embodiments of theremovable data storage device 10 shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the circuit 14may include one or more modules 40-44. The modules may include hardwareor software components, or any combination thereof. According to oneembodiment, one or more of the modules may be computer code modules(e.g., executable code, object code, source code, script code, machinecode, etc.) configured for execution by a processor, which according tovarious embodiments may be located on-board (e.g., part of circuit 14)or off-board (e.g., processor 104) of the removable data storage device10. According to another embodiment, one or more of the modules may behardware components (e.g., inductors, capacitors, switches, solid statecomponents, photocells, etc.) located onboard or offboard the removabledata storage device 10.

Circuit 14 may include a removal detection module 40. According to oneembodiment, the removal detection module 40 is configured to detectimpending removal of the removable data storage device 10 from thepersonal electronic device 100. That is, the removal detection module 40may be configured to detect that the removable data storage device 10has not yet been completely removed (e.g., severed, disconnected,decoupled, etc.) from the personal electronic device 100; however,certain necessary conditions for the removal of the removable datastorage device 10 from the personal electronic device 100 have been met.For example, the removal detection module 40 may be configured to detectthat the cover 114 has been removed from the personal electronic device100. The removal detection module 40 may be configured to detect thebreaking of an electrical contact. According to one embodiment, one ofthe data contacts 116 may be shorter than the others such that one ofthe electrical contacts 16, 116 breaks before the others, or, inpractice, the removable data storage device 10 may be lifted duringremoval such that one of the data contacts 16, 116 breaks before theothers. Accordingly, the circuit 14 may have milliseconds or more toprotect, or at least initiate protection, of the data stored in thememory 12 before the removable data storage device 10 is completelyremoved from the personal electronic device 100.

According to other embodiments, the removal detection module 40 may beconfigured to detect that the removable data storage device 10 has beenremoved from the personal electronic device 100. Depending on theconfiguration of the removal detection module 40 and components thereof,the removal detection module 40 may be configured to detect that theremovable data storage device 10 has been completely removed from thepersonal electronic device 100 or that the data contacts 16, 116 havebeen completely severed. In practice, whether the removal detectionmodule 40 detects impending removal of the removable data storage device10 or that the removable data storage device 10 has been removed maydepend on the configuration of the circuit 14. That is, the samecomponents may be used for either embodiment, but their orientation mayindicate impending removal, ongoing removal, or completed removal.

Whether the removal detection module 40 is configured to detectimpending removal, ongoing removal, or completed removal may depend onhow the rest of circuit 14 is configured to respond to the detection.For example, if impending removal is detected, the processor 104 on thepersonal electronic device 100 may still have time to protect the datastored on the removable data storage device 10 before it is completelyremoved from the personal electronic device 100. Accordingly, asubstantial amount of the processing and power may be supplied by thepersonal electronic device 100. On the other hand, the removable datastorage device 10 may be configured to include its own power supply orprocessing electronics; thus, the removal detection module 40 may beconfigured to detect that the removable data storage device 10 has beenremoved. It is contemplated that the removal detection module 40 may beconfigured to detect both impending removal and completed removal. Forexample, the removable data storage device 10 may have a small powersupply, and the circuit 14 may be configured to begin protecting datausing power from the personal electronic device 100 in response todetecting impending removal. Upon detecting that the removable datastorage device 10 has been removed from the personal electronic device100, the circuit 14 may continue to protect as much data as it can withthe power it has available. According to another embodiment, theremovable data storage device 10 may be configured to draw power toprotect data from the next electronic device (e.g., SIM card reader, SDcard reader, personal electronic device 100, etc.) that the removabledata storage device 10 is coupled to after the removable data storagedevice 10 is removed from the personal electronic device 100.

Referring to FIG. 2, the removal detection module 40 may be configuredto detect the breaking of an electrical contact 52 that couples thepersonal electronic device 100 to the removable data storage device 10.The removal detection module 40 may be configured to detect the makingof electrical contact 54, which couples the personal electronic device100 to the removable data storage device 10. The removal detectionmodule 40 may be configured to detect disruption of a magnetic linkbetween the personal electronic device 100 and the removable datastorage device 10. For example, the removal detection module 40 on boardthe removable data storage device 10 may magnetically couple to acorresponding removal detection module 40′ located on the personalelectronic device 100. The removal detection module 40 may be configuredto detect a change in mutual capacitance between the personal electronicdevice 100 and the removable data storage device 10. For example, theremoval detection module 40 on board the removable data storage device10 may capacitively couple to a corresponding removal detection module40′ located on the personal electronic device 100. The removal detectionmodule 40 may be configured to detect a change in mutual inductancebetween the personal electronic device 100 and the removable datastorage device 10. For example, the removal detection module 40 on boardthe removable data storage device 10 may inductively couple to acorresponding removal detection module 40′ located on the personalelectronic device 100. The removal detection module 40 may be configuredto detect a differential acceleration between the personal electronicdevice 100 and the removable data storage device 10. For example, theremoval detection module 40 on board the removable data storage device10 may include an accelerometer. A corresponding removal detectionmodule 40′ located on the personal electronic device 100 may alsoinclude an accelerometer, or the circuit 14 may receive accelerometerinformation from another accelerometer installed on the personalelectronic device 100. The removal detection module 40 may be configuredto detect a change in orientation of the removable data storage device10 relative to the personal electronic device 100. The removal detectionmodule 40 may be configured to detect a change in temperature (e.g., alowering of temperature, which may indicate a cold attack). For example,the removal detection module 40 may include a thermocouple, athermistor, etc., or the circuit 14 may receive temperature informationfrom a temperature measuring element installed on the personalelectronic device 100. The removal detection module 40 may be configuredto detect a temperature below a threshold value. For example, theremoval detection module 40 may include a thermostat configured to openor close a switch at a threshold temperature.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, schematic cross-sectional views of theremovable data storage device 10 and the personal electronic device 100are shown according to exemplary embodiments. In the embodiments shownin FIGS. 5A-5D, the removal detection module 40 is configured to detectexposure to light. Specifically referring to the embodiment of FIG. 5A,the removable data storage device 10 may include an optical element 46(e.g., a light dependent resistor, a photoelectric cell, etc.) disposedon the removable data storage device 10 such that the optical element 46faces away from the personal electronic device when the removable datastorage device is in an installed position. Accordingly, when the cover114 is removed, the optical element responds to available light.Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the removable data storagedevice 10 may include an optical element 46 disposed on the removabledata storage device 10 such that the optical element 46 faces toward thepersonal electronic device 100 when the removable data storage device 10is in an installed position. According to the embodiment shown, theoptical element 46 may be exposed to available light if the removabledata storage device 10 is rotated or if the removable data storagedevice 10 is moved over ledge 120. Referring to the embodiment of FIG.5C, the personal electronic device 100 may include an optical element 46disposed beneath the removable data storage device 10 such that theoptical element 46 is substantially shielded from available light whenthe removable data storage device 10 is in an installed position.According to the embodiment shown, the optical element 46 may be exposedto available light if the removable data storage device 10 is rotated ortranslated. Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 5D, the removable datastorage device 10 may include an optical element 46 that is located on aportion of the removable data storage device 10 that is not exposed tolight until the removable data storage device 10 has been removed fromthe personal electronic device 100.

Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, schematic block diagrams of the removabledata storage device 10 and the personal electronic device 100 are shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment. The personal electronic device 100may include a member 156 (e.g., a tab, a dog, a restraint, etc.), andthe removal detection module 40 may be configured to detect a change inlocation of the member 156 relative to the personal electronic device100. As shown, the member 156 is moved about an axis 158 to remove theremovable data storage device 10. According to one embodiment, theremoval detection module 40 is configured to detect rotation of themember 156 about the axis 158, for example, via a rotation sensor 159(e.g., hall effect sensor, potentiometer, etc.). According to theembodiment shown, the member 156 may include an electrical contact 160,which electrically couples to a contact 60 on the removable data storagedevice 10. The member 156 or the electrical contacts 60, 160 may beconfigured such that the electrical contact must be broken in order tophysically access the removable data storage device 10. The removaldetection module 40 may be configured to detect a change in resistance.For example, the removable data storage device 10 may include a resistor62, and the personal electronic device 100 may include a contact 162which electrically couples to the resistor 62. Accordingly, as theremovable data storage device 10 is removed from the personal electronicdevice 100, the contact 162 moves relative to the resistor 62 and,thereby, changes the resistance. According to one embodiment, theremoval detection module 40 is configured to detect a change inorientation of the removable data storage device 10 relative to thepersonal electronic device 100.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, schematic block diagrams of the removabledata storage device 10 and the personal electronic device 100 are shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment. The removable data storage device10 may include a member 64, and the removal detection module 40 may beconfigured to detect a change in location of the member 64 relative tothe removable data storage device. For example, the member 64 may bedepressed by a structure 164 when the removable data storage device 10is in an installed position, and the removable data storage device 10may be configured such that the member 64 returns to a non-depressedstate when the member 64 is no longer acted upon by the structure 164.

It should be noted that the exemplary embodiments described above areexamples only for the assistance of the reader, and should not beconsidered limiting. Other orientations and configurations arecontemplated. For example, the cover 114 may have an electrical contactwhich must be broken in order to access the removable data storagedevice 10. For another example, rather than electrical contacts, theremoval detection module 40 may be configured to detect the making orbreaking of a mechanical contact. The mechanical contact may couple thepersonal electronic device 100 to the removable data storage device 10and may be configured such that the mechanical contact must be broken inorder to physically access the removable data storage device 10.

Referring to FIGS. 2-4, the circuit 14 may include a data protectionmodule 42. According to one embodiment, the data protection module 42may be configured to protect at least some of the data stored in thememory 12 of the removable data storage device 10. The data protectionmodule 42 may be configured to protect the data stored in the memory 12of the removable data storage device 10 in a variety of ways. Forexample, the data protection module 42 may be configured to alter,delete, overwrite, encrypt, require a password, designate requiring apassword, hide, and/or hide at least some of the data stored on theremovable data storage device 10. The data protection module 42 may beconfigured to overwrite the data a single time or multiple times.Overwriting the data multiple times reduces the possibility that thedata may be recovered by forensic techniques. The data may beoverwritten with all 0's, all 1's, random values, or a repeating patternof 1's and 0's. The data protection module 42 may be configured toencrypt unencrypted data, to re-encrypt previously encrypted data (e.g.,with a different key), or to increase the level of encryption (e.g.,using a different algorithm, using a stronger key, etc.) of previouslyencrypted data. The data protection module 42 may be configured to hideat least some of the data by deleting, encrypting, or overwriting atleast some of the memory pointers 20 in the memory 12. The dataprotection module 42 may be configured to introduce false or misleadingdata into at least some of the data stored in the memory of theremovable data storage device 10. The data protection module 42 may beconfigured to prevent access to at least some of the data stored in thememory 12, for example, by requiring a password to access the data,physically disconnecting (e.g., opening a switch, closing a switch,etc.) at least some of the data stored in the memory 12 from the datacontacts 16, etc. The data protection module 42 may include instructionsfor implementing the type of protection to be employed, for example,whether to destroy, alter, encrypt, hide, etc. the data. According toone embodiment, the data protection module 42 protects the data storedin the memory 12 in response to a signal from a removal detection module40′ on the personal electronic device 100.

According to one embodiment, the data protection module 42 may beconfigured to protect all of the data stored in the memory 12 of theremovable data storage device 10. According to another embodiment, thedata protection module 42 may be configured to protect a subset of thedata stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10.According to various embodiments, the subset of data may be informationrequired for operation of the personal electronic device 100, a passwordfile, an encryption key, an image data, a personal information, acontact information, a telephone number information, a locationinformation, and/or a data log. For example, the subset of data mayinclude photographs, videos, names, addresses, phone numbers, callhistories, web history, GPS location history, cell tower access history,etc. According to another embodiment, the subset of data includes datastored in a designated memory location 22. For example, an applicationmay be configured to store particularly sensitive information in thedesignated memory location 22 so that it will be protected by thecircuit 14. For example, a computer may synchronize the contents of aparticular folder with the designated memory location 22, so that a usermay place sensitive information into the particular folder, and thatinformation will be synchronized with the designated memory location 22.Protecting the data stored in the designated memory location 22 firsthelps to ensure that particularly sensitive information will beprotected even if limited time or power resources are available to thecircuit 14. It is contemplated that while the data protection module 42may first protect the designated memory location 22, the circuit 14 maybe configured to subsequently protect additional memory locations onmemory 12.

Referring to FIG. 4C, the personal electronic device 100 may include anenergy module 44 configured to provide power to the data protectionmodule 42. According to various embodiments, the energy module 44 mayinclude a battery, a capacitor, or any other suitable power supply. Thebattery may be the general power supply 112 for the personal electronicdevice 100, or may be a separate dedicated battery. Referring to FIG.4A, the personal electronic device 100 may include an energy module 44′which corresponds to an energy module 44 located on the removable datastorage device 10. For example, energy modules 44, 44′ may each includea portion of an inductor, which is configured to inductively coupleenergy or power to the data protection module 42.

Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4D, the data storage device 10 includesan energy module 44 configured to provide power to the data protectionmodule 42. Providing an energy module 44 on the removable data storagedevice 10 enables the data protection module 42 to protect the datastored in memory 12 even after the removable data storage device 10 hasbeen removed from the personal electronic device 100. The energy module44 may include a battery, a capacitor, a photoelectric cell 46, or anyother suitable power supply. For example, the energy module 44 may beconfigured to convert environmental energy (e.g., an electromagneticstimulus, a kinetic stimulus, an ultrasonic stimulus, etc.) into useableenergy. According to one embodiment, an energy module 44′ on thepersonal electronic device 100 may transmit infrared, microwave, orother electromagnetic impulse to a receiving energy module 44 on theremovable data storage device 10. According to another embodiment, thepersonal electronic device 100 may transmit ultrasonic waves which areconverted to useable energy via piezo elements in the energy module 44on board the removable data storage device 10. According to variousembodiments, the energy modules 44 may have stored in them before and/orafter the removable data storage device 10 is installed into thepersonal electronic device 100. For example, a battery or capacitor onthe removable data storage device 10 may be charged at the factory orotherwise separately from the personal electronic device 100. Theremovable data storage device 10 may be configured to charge a batteryor capacitor in the energy module 44 using power from the personalelectronic device 100.

It should be noted that not all elements or modules shown in a Figureare required, even though some Figures show multiple elements or modulesfor the sake of space. Furthermore, it is contemplated that one modulemay perform the tasks described by two modules above. For example,referring to FIG. 4B, the data protection module 42 may include anenergy module 44.

Referring to FIG. 8, the removable data storage device 10 is shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment. As shown, the removable datastorage device 10 includes a memory 12 and a power source 70. The powersource 70 may include one or more energy storage components (e.g., abattery, a capacitor, etc.). The power source 70 may be configured toconvert environmental energy (e.g., a light stimulus, an electromagneticstimulus, a kinetic stimulus, an ultrasonic stimulus, etc.) into useableenergy. According to one embodiment, the power source 70 may include aphotoelectric cell 46. According to another embodiment, the power source70 may convert infrared, microwave, or other electromagnetic impulseinto usable energy. According to another embodiment, the power source 70may use piezo elements to convert ultrasonic waves into useable energy.

Referring to FIG. 9, a flowchart of process 200 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 200 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 202) and causing at least some ofthe data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10to be protected in response to detecting removal of the data storagedevice 10 (step 204).

Referring to FIG. 10, a flowchart of process 210 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 210 is shown to includethe steps of detecting impending removal of the data storage device 10from a personal electronic device 100 (step 212) and causing at leastsome of the data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storagedevice 10 to be protected in response to detecting impending removal ofthe data storage device 10 (step 214).

Referring to FIG. 11, a flowchart of process 220 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 220 is shown to includethe steps of detecting that the data storage device 10 has been removedfrom a personal electronic device 100 (step 222) and causing at leastsome of the data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storagedevice 10 to be altered in response to detecting that the data storagedevice 10 has been removed from the personal electronic device (step224).

Referring to FIG. 12, a flowchart of process 230 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 230 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 232) and causing at least some ofthe data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10to be protected in response to detecting removal of the data storagedevice 10 (step 234). Process 230 may further include one or more of thesteps of deleting at least some of the data stored in the memory 12 ofthe removable data storage device 10 (step 236), overwriting at leastsome of the data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storagedevice 10 (step 238), encrypting at least some of the data stored in thememory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 (step 240),introducing false data into at least some of the data stored in thememory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 (step 242), hiding atleast some of the data stored in the memory 12 of the removable datastorage device 10 (step 244), and preventing access to at least some ofthe data stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10(step 246). It should be noted that these steps may be performed, if atall, in any order, including simultaneously. For example, according toone embodiment, process 230 may encrypt some of the data stored inmemory 12 and then delete the encryption key and hide the data (e.g., bydeleting memory pointers 20).

Referring to FIG. 13, a flowchart of process 250 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 250 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 252), receiving power from anenergy module 44 (step 254), and causing at least some of the datastored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 to beprotected in response to detecting removal of the data storage device 10(step 256).

Referring to FIG. 14, a flowchart of process 260 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 260 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 262), providing power to a dataprotection module 42 (step 264), and causing at least some of the datastored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 to beprotected in response to detecting removal of the data storage device 10(step 266).

Referring to FIG. 15, a flowchart of process 270 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 270 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 272), causing at least some of thedata stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 tobe protected in response to detecting removal of the data storage device10 (step 274), and destroying circuitry on the removable data storagedevice (step 276). According to various embodiments, the destroyedcircuitry may include a processor (e.g., which may be part of circuit14, etc.), a sensor, a portion of the memory 12, or an antenna 80.According to other embodiments, the steps of causing data to beprotected (step 274) and destroying circuitry (step 276) may happen insimultaneously or in reverse order.

Referring to FIG. 16, a flowchart of process 300 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 300 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 302), causing at least some of thedata stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 tobe protected in response to detecting removal of the data storage device10 (step 304), and outputting a removal signal (step 306). According tovarious embodiments, the removal signal may be output from the removabledata storage device 10 or the personal electronic device 100. Forexample, the personal electronic device 100 may send (e.g., transmit,etc.) a removal signal to the removable data storage device 10, eitherwired (e.g., via data contacts 16) or wirelessly (e.g., via antenna 108,an inductor, etc.), indicating that the removable data storage device 10is about to be, is being, or has been removed. Similarly, the removabledata storage device 10 may send (e.g., transmit, etc.) a removal signalto the personal electronic device 100, either wired (e.g., via datacontacts 16) or wirelessly (e.g., via antenna 80, an inductor, etc.),indicating that the removable data storage device 10 is about to be, isbeing, or has been removed. According to other embodiments, the removalsignal may stay internal to either the removable data storage device 10or the personal electronic device 100. According to various embodiments,the removal signal may be electrical, optical, electromagnetic (e.g.,infrared, radio frequency, etc.), acoustic (e.g., ultrasonic, etc.),etc. According to various embodiments, the removal signal may be ahuman-perceivable alert, for example, an audible alert (e.g., a beep, asiren, etc.), a visual alert (e.g., an illuminated light, a flashinglight, an image on a display, etc.), or a haptic alert (e.g., avibration). According to various other embodiments, the removable datastorage device 10 and/or the personal electronic device 100 may send aremoval signal to a third device. According to one embodiment, theremoval signal from the removable data storage device 10 to the personalelectronic device 100 may cause the personal electronic device 100 totransmit a message. For example, the personal electronic device 100 maysend a message which may indicate to the owner, user, service provider,etc., that the removable data storage device 10 is about to be, isbeing, or has been removed from the personal electronic device 100. Themessage may be through any suitable mode of communication (e.g., a textmessage, an email, a telephone call, connecting to a remote server, forexample, over the internet, through a wired or wireless network, etc.).The message may simply indicate that the removable data storage device10 is about to be, is being, or has been removed from the personalelectronic device 100, or the message may include additional information(e.g., time and/or date information, location information, GPScoordinates, cell tower information, etc.). It is further contemplatedthat the removable data storage device 10 may be configured to send theremoval signal to a third component directly, for example, via antenna80.

Referring to FIG. 17, a flowchart of process 310 for protecting datastored in a memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 310 is shown to includethe steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10 from apersonal electronic device 100 (step 312), causing at least some of thedata stored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 tobe protected in response to detecting removal of the data storage device10 (step 314), and outputting a removal signal (step 318).

Process 310 may include the step of configuring the data storage device10 to cause a personal electronic device 100 to transmit a message whenthe data storage device 10 is next placed in an installed position (step316). For example, the removable data storage device 10 may not be ableto communicate with the personal electronic device 100 after theremovable data storage device 10 has been removed from the personalelectronic device 100 because the personal electronic device 100 hasbeen turned off, the removable data storage device 10 does not have anantenna 80, etc. Accordingly, the removable data storage device 10 mayconfigure itself to cause the next personal electronic device it isinserted into to send a message. According to one embodiment, a module(e.g., computer code, self-executing computer code, etc.) may be storedin the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10. According toanother embodiment, the circuit 14 may be configured to cause themessage to be sent.

Process 310 may include the step of causing the personal electronicdevice 100 to transmit a message (step 320). According to oneembodiment, the removal signal may be output from the removable datastorage device 10 to the personal electronic device 100 after theremovable data storage device 10 has been reinserted into the personalelectronic device 100, thus causing the personal electronic device 100to transmit the message.

Process 310 may include the step of disabling the personal electronicdevice 100 in response to the removal signal (step 322). For example,the personal electronic device 100 may be permanently disabled, disabledfor a period of time, or re-enabled in response to a re-enablementsignal. The re-enablement signal may include a password, signal from aservice provider, etc. Disablement may include complete disablement ofthe personal electronic device 100 or disablement of particularfeatures. For example, process 310 may disable the antenna 108, the datacontacts 116, etc. Disabling the antenna 108 would make a smart phoneembodiment of the personal electronic device 100 less than useful to auser. Disabling the data contacts 116 may prevent, for example, a virusor other fraudulent data added to the removable data storage device 10by a remover of the removable data storage device from affecting arightful user of the personal electronic device 100.

In further regards to the above described systems and methods, it iscontemplated that a user may want to remove the removable data storagedevice 10 from the personal electronic device 100 without protecting thedata stored in the memory 12, or at least not protecting the data to theextent of deleting the data or otherwise making the data hard toretrieve. Thus, the data protection system may include an authorizationsystem for preauthorizing removal of the removable data storage device10 from the personal electronic device 100. The authorization system mayinclude a module or other computer code stored on the removable datastorage device 10 (e.g., in memory 12, in circuit 14, etc.) or thepersonal electronic device 100 and executed by the removable datastorage device 10 or the personal electronic device 100, or somecombination thereof. According to one embodiment, the authorizationsystem may be configured as an “app” on a smart phone. The authorizationsystem may be preauthorized (e.g., put in a preauthorized state, settinga preauthorized state flag, etc.) by a user input, for example, via theuser input device 110 on the personal electronic device 100. The userinput device 110 may include a keypad, a keyboard, a touch sensitivescreen, a toggle switch, a rotary selector, a trackball, a camera, afingerprint scanner, etc., and the user input may include a password orbiometric identification, (e.g., a fingerprint, a retinal scan, facialrecognition, etc.). For example, a user may take a picture of themselvesusing a camera coupled to the personal electronic device 100, and theauthorization system uses facial recognition software to preauthorizeremoval of the removable data storage device 10 from the personalelectronic device 100. Certain data stored in the memory of theremovable data storage device 10 may be preserved in response to theauthorization system being in a preauthorized state. According to oneembodiment, the preauthorized state may reset after a time interval. Forexample, if a user preauthorizes removal, but does not remove theremovable data storage device 10 in a certain period of time (e.g., 10seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.), thepreauthorized state may reset. Thus, the user may be protected fromleaving a preauthorizing removable data storage device 10 in a personalelectronic device 100, for example, due to distractedness orforgetfulness.

Referring to FIG. 18, a flowchart of process 400 for protecting datastored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 isshown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 400 is shown toinclude the steps of detecting removal of the data storage device 10from a personal electronic device 100 (step 402), determining whether adata protection system is in a preauthorized state (step 404), andcausing at least some of the data stored in a memory of the removabledata storage device to be protected based on detecting removal and onwhether a data protection system is in a preauthorized state (step 406).

Referring to FIG. 19, a flowchart of process 410 for protecting datastored in the memory 12 of the removable data storage device 10 isshown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 410 may includeoutputting a warning in response to detecting potential removal of theremovable data storage device 10 (step 412). According to variousembodiments, the warning may simply be an alert, the warning may promptthe user to preauthorize removal of the removable data storage device10, etc. Process 410 is shown to include the steps of receiving a userinput (step 414), setting the preauthorization state based on the userinput (step 416), and detecting removal of the data storage device 10from the personal electronic device 100 (step 418). Process 410 thendetermines if the data protection system is in a preauthorized state(step 420). If the data protection system is not in a preauthorizedstate, then process 410 proceeds to the step of causing data stored in amemory of the removable data storage device to be protected at a firstlevel (step 422). If the data protection system is in a preauthorizedstate, then process 410 proceeds to the step of causing data stored in amemory of the removable data storage device to be protected at a secondlevel (step 424). The first and second levels of protection each mayinclude on or more of encrypting data, deleting data, hiding data, andoverwriting data. According to one embodiment, the second level ofprotection differs from the first level of protection. According topreferred embodiments, the first level of protection is more secure orsevere than the second level of protection. For example, according toone embodiment, the first level of protection includes deleting data,and the second level of protection includes encrypting data. Accordingto another embodiment, the first level of protection may includeencrypting or hiding data, and the second level of protection mayinclude doing nothing. For example, if the data stored in the memory 12is already encrypted, the first level of protection may hide the data,and the second level of encryption simply leaves the stored data in itsencrypted state.

Referring generally to FIGS. 12-18, according to some embodiments, thedetecting step 232, 252, 262, 272, 302, 312, 402 includes detectingimpending removal of the data storage device, and the causing step 234,256, 266, 274, 304, 314, 406 includes causing at least some of the datato be protecting in response to detecting the impending removal.According to other embodiments, the detecting step 232, 252, 262, 272,302, 312, 402 includes detecting that the data storage device has beenremoved, and the causing step 234, 256, 266, 274, 304, 314, 406 includescausing at least some of the data to be protecting in response todetecting that the data storage device has been removed.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement ofthe elements of the systems and methods as shown in the exemplaryembodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments ofthe present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled inthe art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example,elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple partsor elements. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies ofthe enclosure may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materialsthat provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide varietyof colors, textures, and combinations. Additionally, in the subjectdescription, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example,instance or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as“exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments or designs. Rather, use of the wordexemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included withinthe scope of the present inventions. The order or sequence of anyprocess or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according toalternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended tocover the structures described herein as performing the recited functionand not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferredand other exemplary embodiments without departing from scope of thepresent disclosure or from the spirit of the appended claims.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and programproducts on any machine-readable media for accomplishing variousoperations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implementedusing existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computerprocessor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or anotherpurpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of thepresent disclosure include program products comprising machine-readablemedia for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or datastructures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example,such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROMor other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or storedesired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions ordata structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose orspecial purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Wheninformation is transferred or provided over a network or anothercommunications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combinationof hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views theconnection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection isproperly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above arealso included within the scope of machine-readable media.Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions anddata which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer,or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function orgroup of functions.

Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, theorder of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or moresteps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Suchvariation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and ondesigner choice. All such variations are within the scope of thedisclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplishedwith standard programming techniques with rule based logic and otherlogic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps,comparison steps and decision steps.

1-282. (canceled)
 283. A system for protecting data stored in a memoryof a removable data storage device , comprising: a personal electronicdevice; a removable solid state data storage device operatively coupledto the personal electronic device; and a circuit configured to protectdata stored in a memory of the data storage device in response todetecting impending removal of the data storage device from the personalelectronic device.
 284. The system of claim 283, wherein the circuit isdisposed on the personal electronic device.
 285. The system of claim283, wherein the circuit is disposed at least partially on at least oneof the personal electronic device and the data storage device.
 286. Thesystem of claim 283, wherein the circuit comprises a removal detectionmodule, the removal detection module configured to detect impendingremoval of the data storage device.
 287. The system of claim 286,wherein the removal detection module is configured to detect removal ofa cover from the personal electronic device.
 288. The system of claim286, wherein the removal detection module is configured to detect adifferential acceleration between the personal electronic device and thedata storage device.
 289. The system of claim 286, wherein the removaldetection module is configured to detect exposure to light.
 290. Thesystem of claim 289, wherein the personal electronic device comprises alight dependent resistor disposed beneath the data storage device suchthat the light dependent resistor is substantially shielded fromavailable light when the data storage device is in an installedposition.
 291. The system of claim 286, wherein the removal detectionmodule is configured to detect a change in orientation of the datastorage device relative to the personal electronic device.
 292. Thesystem of claim 283, wherein the circuit comprises a data protectionmodule configured to protect at least some of the data stored in thememory of the data storage device.
 293. The system of claim 292, whereinthe data protection module comprises instructions for implementing thetype of protection to be employed.
 294. The system of claim 292, whereinthe data protection module is configured to protect a subset of the datastored in the memory of the data storage device.
 295. The system ofclaim 292, wherein the data protection module is configured to delete atleast some of the data stored in the memory of the data storage device.296. The system of claim 292, wherein the data protection module isconfigured to prevent access to at least some of the data stored in thememory of the data storage device.
 297. The system of claim 292, whereinthe data storage device comprises an energy module configured to providepower to the data protection module.
 298. The system of claim 297,wherein energy is stored in the energy module after the data storagedevice is placed into an installed position.
 299. The system of claim292, wherein the personal electronic device comprises an energy moduleconfigured to provide power to the data protection module.
 300. Aremovable data storage device comprising: a circuit configured torespond to detecting impending removal of the removable data storagedevice from a personal electronic device by protecting data stored in amemory of the removable data storage device.
 301. The removable datastorage device of claim 300, wherein the circuit comprises a removaldetection module, the removal detection module being configured todetect impending removal of the removable data storage device.
 302. Theremovable data storage device of claim 301, wherein the removaldetection module is configured to detect a change in mutual capacitancebetween the personal electronic device and the removable data storagedevice.
 303. The removable data storage device of claim 301, wherein theremoval detection module is configured to detect a change in mutualinductance between the personal electronic device and the removable datastorage device.
 304. The removable data storage device of claim 301,wherein the removal detection module is configured to detect exposure tolight.
 305. The removable data storage device of claim 304 furthercomprising a photoelectric cell disposed on the removable data storagedevice such that the photoelectric cell faces toward the personalelectronic device when the removable data storage device is in aninstalled position.
 306. The removable data storage device of claim 300,wherein the circuit comprises a data protection module configured toprotect at least some of the data stored in the memory of the removabledata storage device.
 307. The removable data storage device of claim306, wherein the data protection module responds to a signal from aremoval detection module on the personal electronic device.
 308. Theremovable data storage device of claim 306, wherein the data protectionmodule is configured to protect a subset of the data stored in thememory of the removable data storage device.
 309. The removable datastorage device of claim 308, wherein the subset of data comprises datastored in a designated memory location.
 310. The removable data storagedevice of claim 308, wherein the subset of data comprises informationrequired for operation of the personal electronic device.
 311. Theremovable data storage device of claim 306, wherein the data protectionmodule is configured to delete at least some of the data stored in thememory of the removable data storage device.
 312. The removable datastorage device of claim 306, wherein the data protection module isconfigured to overwrite at least some of the data stored in the memoryof the removable data storage device.
 313. The removable data storagedevice of claim 306, wherein the data protection module is configured toencrypt at least some of the data stored in the memory of the removabledata storage device.
 314. The removable data storage device of claim306, wherein the data protection module is configured to introducemisleading data into at least some of the data stored in the memory ofthe removable data storage device.
 315. The removable data storagedevice of claim 306, wherein the data protection module is configured tohide at least some of the data stored in the memory of the removabledata storage device.
 316. The removable data storage device of claim306, wherein the data protection module is configured to prevent accessto at least some of the data stored in the memory of the removable datastorage device.
 317. The removable data storage device of claim 306further comprising an energy module configured to power the dataprotection module.
 318. The removable data storage device of claim 317,wherein energy is stored in the energy module prior to the data storagedevice being placed into an installed position.
 319. The removable datastorage device of claim 317, wherein the energy module is configured toreceive energy from the personal electronic device.
 320. A method forprotecting data stored in a memory of a removable data storage device,comprising: detecting impending removal of the data storage device froma personal electronic device; and causing at least some of the datastored in a memory of the removable data storage device to be protectedin response to detecting impending removal of the data storage device.